Backpacks, Outdoor Gear and EDC | The Best Products to Buy from June 2024

From keeping drinks cool on summer adventures to slim commuter-friendly bags with convenient tech storage, June dished up a variety of fresh offerings for urban, outdoor, and travel needs. Discover the month’s best new gear below.

EDC

CWF Peanut TAD Edition Flashlight

The CWF Peanut TAD Edition combines performance and eye-catching aesthetics in one, serving as a versatile flashlight for both urban and outdoor use. It includes the Quantum Dragon driver and offers a variety of customizable features such as programmable secondary RGB LEDs, adjustable power levels, and a triple tap strobe function. Made in the USA with an aluminum body and a Cerakote finish, the flashlight includes a titanium deep carry pocket clip and offers 1500 lumens via an included 18350 rechargeable battery.

VERO Open Water 38

The VERO Watch Company, based in Portland, Oregon, has quite an origin story. They started down one path and quickly pivoted with the Open Water in 2021, which served as the brand’s symbolic relaunch. And what a marquee watch it is, both iconic and familiar in design. One might prefer a smaller and more wearable watch on the short list of quibbles. Three years later, that’s precisely what the team gave us with the Open Water 38.

The all-new watch measures 38mm in diameter, 10.75 mm thick, and has a lug to lug of 46.5mm. The lug width is 18mm, and the bracelet tapers down to 16mm. VERO is the first company to license Nodus’s NodeX Adjustable Clasp, powered by a Selita SW-200-1 automatic movement. A flat sapphire with AR coating serves as your window, and the 12-hour uni-directional bezel is Cerakoted. The Open Water 38 is initially available in two colorways, Cove and Swell, and is covered by VERO’s 10-year no-questions-asked warranty.

VERO Forest Service Collection

Switching from water to land, VERO Watch Company has released a collection of officially licensed Forest Service watches that salute the valuable work done by these teams while bringing some fun personality to your wrist. The collection features four colorways including Ranger, Hotshot, Airtanker, and Service Green options, with each watch using a Seiko kinetic movement that offers a six-month power reserve. Super LumiNova detailing boosts legibility, with additional features including a date window and 120-meter water resistance.

YSMART MQ3X Flashlight

YSMART designed the MQ3X Flashlight to offer the ultimate combination of user-friendly convenience and compact portability. One of the key features is the pop-to-light functionality, providing instant illumination through a simple and quick pop-off motion. The flashlight also features a magnetic base for hands-free use, a choice of white, red, or UV LEDs, and straightforward USB Type-C charging. Available in brass or titanium options, the flashlight can currently be preordered through Kickstarter.

Connect Pro: World’s First 100W Magnetic Cable

If you have a charging station at home, you know how cumbersome it can be to plug and unplug devices repeatedly. Not only does this cause wear and tear on the cable connectors, but it also threatens to damage your device charging ports, leading to downtime and costly repairs.

Magnetic cables are not new, but Chargeasap is promising what might be the endgame charging solution with its Connect Pro. Recently launched on Kickstarter, the Connect Pro supports 100W PD Charge and 27W Apple Fast Charge and has connections for USB-C, Apple, Lightning, and Micro USB devices. Using it is simple: you just leave the low-profile connector in your device, and when you bring the cable near it, the strong magnets bring them together with a satisfying snap.

The Connect Pro also boasts an in-line power reader, displayed on a sleep LED screen, so you can see that your devices are charging at maximum speed in real time. It’s the first magnetic cable to support 27W Apple Fast charging through Lightning fully; this was made possible by redesigning their cable through an 11-pin design.

Urban

Ucon Acrobatics Phantom Series

The Phantom Series from Ucon Acrobatics effortlessly blends safety, sustainability, and minimalist style. Made with ECO-RFLX-900 fabric, the custom material is embedded with microscopic glass beads that reflect light, boosting nighttime visibility and making these helpful carry companions when walking or cycling near traffic. The upper material is a durable 900D Oxford created from recycled PET bottles, with a double PU coating providing a weatherproof finish. While the exteriors are sleek and clean for transitioning from work to play, the interiors offer light-colored linings for easy visibility and functional organization for everyday carry items.

Article One X Mission Workshop AO X MW Navigator Sunglasses

Mission Workshop’s collaboration with Article One proved a popular hit with their Navigator Sunglasses. And now the frames have been restocked while also offering new colorways to the lineup including Black with Gray polarized lenses and Tortoise with Brown polarized lenses. The frames are made in Italy using a lightweight but durable and hypoallergenic TR90 polymer. Additional features include silicone nose pads and ear pads, an adjustable wire core skeleton for more intense activities, and Italian Divel CR-39 polarized lenses that block 100% of UVA/UVB rays and are designed to prevent road glare.

WaterField Designs Tech Folio Brief Slim and Tech Folio Backpack Slim

WaterField Designs have released new “Slim” sizes of their stylish, work-ready Tech Folio Brief and Tech Folio Backpack, ideal for those who carry smaller loads but still want thoughtful organization and ready access to tech. The Slim backpack provides the same full-length folio compartment to organize tech accessories, with a slimmer main compartment featuring two built-in laptop/tablet sleeves. The Slim brief also retains the same folio storage section as the standard size, with a thinner briefcase section. Smart options for daily commutes or overnight trips, both bags come in ballistic nylon and waxed canvas options to suit varying tastes.

Trakke Special Projects Collection

June was Special Projects Month for Trakke, an opportunity to use leftover materials from their workshop and to experiment with non-waxed canvas materials across popular pieces in their lineup. The collection includes a variety of pieces such as the Kelso Sling, Canna Backpack, and Banana Crossbody Bag in Pink waxed canvas, the Bairn Messenger Bag in Navy C4X wet-finish waxed canvas, the Largo Sling in Dyneema, and the Bannoch Backpack in MultiCam Black X-Pac X50.

Chrome Industries Sabin Sling and Camden Backpack

Chrome Industries have dished up two versatile offerings for urban expeditions with the Sabin Sling and Camden Backpack. Available in 3L and 6L options, the Sabin Sling offers quick-access front and rear external pockets, along with further pocketing in the main compartment. The 16L Camden Backpack has an interior 15-inch laptop sleeve, an interior water bottle sleeve, a padded pocket for sunglasses or a phone, and a luggage pass-through sleeve. Available in four colorways, both the sling and backpack are made with lightweight, 100% recycled, and PFAS-free materials and backed by a lifetime warranty.

Triple Aught Design Covert XR Pant

Tough enough for everyday wear and versatile enough for day-to-day, travel, and outdoor use, TAD’s Covert XR Pant is an adaptable all-rounder for a variety of environments and pursuits. The straight-leg pant offers burly reinforced construction with a touch of stretch for comfort, freedom of movement with a gusseted crotch, and a DWR finish. Dual hand, thigh, and rear pockets offer ready access to small items on the go, while a choice of colors and lengths accommodate personal preferences.

Triple Aught Design Cortex Glove

Designed to embrace a variety of uses and settings, the Cortex Glove combines durability, comfort, and sleek aesthetics in one. Made in collaboration with Philleywood, each pair is handcrafted in California using abrasion-resistant and flexible Keratan goatskin on the palm side with a distinct “etched diamond” surface. Camo printed goatskin features on the top of the hand and thumb, while African Hair sheep leather is used for the palm heel padding, binding, and pull strap. The thumb and index finger are touchscreen compatible, while a gel patch at the outer palm heels helps provide impact protection.

Hiking Patrol Messenger Bag

The Hiking Patrol Messenger Bag brings multifunctionality to your daily carry, with dual magnetic flaps providing access to the main compartment and two hidden pockets respectively. The main compartment offers two wallet pockets and a 15-inch tech pocket, while the Cordura 1000D OEKO-TEX® fabric construction is tough enough to withstand use day in and day out for years to come. Additionally, a Fidlock V-buckle butterfly strap and a messenger strap with a Fidlock slider button offer convenient carry and adjustability.

Bellroy Laneway Collection

Bellroy’s Laneway Collection brings relaxed style, versatile functionality, and sustainable construction to weekdays and weekends alike, with three new designs to suit a variety of loads. The 18L Laneway Totepack can be carried over the shoulder or as a backpack, with multiple interior and exterior pockets for organization. The 3.5L Laneway Sacoche offers a slim profile that can expand to accommodate changing loads on the go, with a discreet rear pocket for storing valuables. The smallest piece in the collection is the 2L Laneway Belt Bag, with dual interior pockets, a discreet rear pocket, and a magnetic clasp on the shoulder strap. The collection uses a new fabric called Seaweave, crafted with 50% recycled fishing nets and 50% recycled industrial nylon, and each piece comes in three understated colorways that easily blend into diverse settings.

Buck Mason Avalon Knit S/S Shirt

With warmer weather sweeping much of the world, looking good while staying cool is essential, especially when traveling. Buck Mason’s new Avalon Knit S/S Shirt is the latest addition to the company’s mid-century-inspired Avalon Knit Collection. A throwback to sportswear from the 1950s, the Avalon fabric is knit from yarn-dyed cotton and has a slightly slubby texture and crisp hand, making it flexible enough to dress up or down. A polo collar, full front button closure, patch chest pocket, and rib finishing at the cuff and hem round out the features.

Glerups Introduces Its First Lace Shoe

Danish brand Glreups has a permanent place on many shoe racks. Every fall and winter, their felt shoes keep the early mornings and late evenings bearable, whether enjoying a morning cup of joe or taking out the trash. This week, they launched their first lace shoe, designed for year-round, everyday wear. The Langdal is the culmination of over 30 years of development and design. It features uppers made with 100% pure, natural wool and soft, chrome-free leather, organic cotton laces, and a natural rubber outsole.

The insoles and midsoles are constructed with coconut, a byproduct from the food industry, to provide a comfortable underfoot. The Langdal is available in six colors: Charcoal, Grey, Brown, Cream, Light Green, and Rose, with sizing for both men and women.

Outdoor

Triple Aught Design Ronin XT Jacket

Sleek and adaptable for exploring both outdoor terrain and urban jungles, the TAD Ronin XT Jacket offers tailored styling with adventure-ready toughness. Made in the USA with abrasion-resistant Tweave Durastretch fabric, the jacket features four-way stretch, dual bicep and hand pockets, and a drop-tail hem. Available in three colorways, it’s a functional wardrobe staple for year-round use.

BrüMate MagPack Soft Coolers

If you’re looking for premium portability for your cool drinks, BrüMate’s line of MagPack Soft Coolers delivers. Available in three sizes, the leakproof coolers each feature a zipperless magnetic Pivot Lid, a Repel Waterproof Shell, and IceShield Technology to create antimicrobial insulation. The largest size can be carried as a backpack and holds 24 cans, while the two smaller sizes can be carried as slings and hold 18 and 12 cans respectively.

Anker EverFrost Portable Cooler 30

A cooler that doesn’t require ice? The Anker EverFrost Portable Cooler offers just that thanks to a 299Wh battery-powered system that offers up to 42 hours of cooling depending on the cooler size. Four different charging options including a 95W adapter, car charging cable, 100W solar panel, and 60W USB-C port provide flexibility wherever adventure takes you, while the EasyTow handle and tough 6-inch wheels provide easy maneuverability over various terrains. Available in three sizes, the cooler also features an extendable table and inbuilt bottle opener.

YETI Roadie 15 Hard Cooler

YETI have expanded their Roadie collection with the most compact cooler in their Hard Cooler lineup. The YETI Roadie 15 Hard Cooler includes a shoulder strap and carry handles, as well as non-slip feet and tie-down points to secure it to a boat, trailer, or truck bed. Ideal for any car, storing in a tent, or easy portability for day trips, the burly RockSolid Strength construction stands up to rugged use while the interior accommodates 22 cans and is compatible with wine bottles.

Stanley Cross Bottle

Wherever the day leads, the Stanley Cross Bottle offers convenient portable hydration courtesy of the included shoulder strap. Made with recycled stainless steel, the bottle features double-wall vacuum insulation, a leakproof Triton lid with an attached lid cover, a removable straw, and a silicone base. Additionally, the 23oz bottle comes in a variety of colorway options to match your personal style.

Gerber Brooklyn Bell Assert

The Gerber Brooklyn Bell Assert fuses functionality and a love of getting active outdoors, stemming from a collaboration with artist and professional mountain biker Brooklyn Bell. The limited-edition Assert features the rolling hills of Central Oregon etched on the blade, paired with a green handle with textured grip. Thumb studs allow for single-handed use, with additional features including an ambidextrous pivot lock and a deep carry pocket clip.

Alex Crane World’s First Plastic-Free Board Short – The Rama

Just in time for beach season, Alex Crane has launched the world’s first plastic-free (and completely biodegradable) board short. The Rama Board Short is made from Bananatex, a technical fabric woven from naturally grown banana plants. Cultivated in the Philippines, the plant is sturdy and self-sufficient, requiring no pesticides, fertilizer, or extra water. The fabric has the look and feel, as well as the durability and quick-drying properties of nylon, but it can be composted at the end of its lifecycle to close the product loop.

EXPED Debuts LUXE Line

Camping does not always mean you have to rough it. EXPED just launched their new LUXE line of all-natural sleeping mats, blankets, and pillows for the best sleep you’ll have in the outdoors. The LuxeMat and LuxeMat Duo improve on the Megamat formula. Made of RWS moisture-regulating wool insulation and organic cotton fabric with 4-way stretch, they offer four inches of vertical thickness for edge-to-edge comfort. The single LuxeMat has side zippers, allowing gap-free mat coupling to be used as a double bed or couch. The LuxeWool Blanket has two sizes and is made of moisture-regulating wool and organic fabrics. At the same time, the LuxeWool Pillow offers the same cover and insulation, plus a plush upcycled foam filling.

NESTOUT Debuts 5000mAh Compact Outdoor Power Bank

ELECOM’s parent company was founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1986 and has won over 150 Good Design Awards and 66 IF Design Awards. NESTOUT is their design-forward wing, focusing on powering outdoor adventures. Seemingly working backward, they launched a 5000mAh battery, joining their existing 10000mAh and 15000mAh collections.

The NESTOUT battery is engineered to endure demanding outdoor environments. It’s rugged, waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, with an IP67 rating. It weighs just 4.9 ounces and measures 5.3 x 1.4 inches. It takes up minimal room in a backpack.

Besides its unique design and durability, what sets the NESTOUT line apart is how well it integrates. Add a LAMP or FLASH module to provide directional or tent-filling illumination to your campsite. Both seamlessly integrate into any power bank and include a tripod setup for upright and hanging configurations. Two solar panel options with USB outputs can be deployed to charge up the power banks during the day, so they are ready to provide your phones and gear with power in the evening.

CAMP Smokey Bear Eyewear Capsule

Since 1944, Smokey Bear has been an iconic symbol of wildfire prevention and environmental stewardship. While it’s not clear that the total number of wildfires has increased since the ‘40s, it is clear that the overall burned area by wildfire has seen a significant uptick in recent decades. That’s why it’s no surprise and perhaps appropriate that the Forest Service is making a big push for prevention, with Smokey taking the lead.

This summer, CAMP Eyewear is releasing a limited-edition Smokey Bear capsule. It features five of its best-selling sunglasses, including Cliff, Cove, Glacier, Topo, and Trail, all with rustic vintage-inspired colors and design details. Taking a nod from the retro aesthetic of Smokey Bear’s ‘70s era public service campaigns, the glasses feature laser engraved wood accents, Smokey’s hat emblem, and taglines. 

Travel

Triple Aught Design Azimuth Pack

Triple Aught Design have brought back their popular adventure-ready Azimuth Pack, a highly versatile and packable bag that lends itself to numerous outdoor and urban carry needs. Made in the USA with X-Pac VX21, the pack is tough, weatherproof, and lightweight, making it a useful companion for storing in a larger travel bag to embrace grab-and-go exploration at your destination. Whether you’re wandering down cobbled city streets or conquering hikes, the assortment of internal and external pockets keep gear organized on the go, with both top and side access to the main compartment for ease of use. The pack is also hydration bladder compatible and includes a removable sternum strap.

Halfway Premium Garment Duffel 45L

Halfway have revised their best-selling Garment Duffel with a new premium version featuring a ballistic nylon exterior, an externally accessible padded laptop sleeve, and additional organization pockets. Durable metal hardware and lockable zipper sliders provide peace of mind on the go, with a padded shoulder strap complementing the luggage passthrough sleeve. The thoughtful design is a great two-in-one option for carrying dress clothes and shoes in addition to regular travel gear.

norda Toolbox

The norda Toolbox is specifically designed for trail runners, with 70L of storage space and various organization options to separate clean and dirty gear. Made entirely with Bio-Dyneema®, the strongest and lightest fiber in the world, the duffel offers durable and breathable storage for trail gear, along with removable shoulder straps for flexible backpack or duffel carry as required.

Our Best New Gear guides are written by David Vo and Catherine Baecker-Khoury.